Tbilisi: Pro Wine Tasting & Georgian Cooking Class from Chef

Imagine spending a few hours in Tbilisi learning how to craft authentic Georgian dishes like khinkali and khachapuri while sampling a wide variety of local wines. This experience, priced at $106 per person and lasting roughly three hours, promises a blend of culinary education and wine appreciation in a cozy, well-equipped studio.

What we love about this tour is how it combines hands-on cooking with a professional wine tasting, all guided by skilled chefs and sommeliers. The fact that you’ll get recipe cards and a curated guide to local eateries means you’ll have resources to recreate your favorites long after you leave. Plus, the 24-hour travel concierge service ensures your needs are met even after the experience ends.

However, a key consideration is that this experience is somewhat structured around a group setting, and with only one review so far rating it at 2 out of 5, some may find the execution a bit inconsistent. Those looking for a deeply immersive, flawless experience might want to read the details carefully. Still, if you’re interested in authentic Georgian cuisine and wine, and enjoy learning from passionate guides, this experience offers solid value.

This tour is ideal for foodies and wine lovers who want a manageable introduction to Georgia’s culinary scene, especially those new to Georgian dishes or looking for a fun, interactive activity in Tbilisi.

Key Points

Authentic Georgian cuisine: Make traditional dishes like khinkali and khachapuri in a cozy studio.
Wide wine selection: Tasting 34 varieties, from well-known wineries to small artisanal producers.
Expert guidance: Chefs and sommeliers provide insightful stories, tips, and food pairings.
Practical resources: Recipe cards and a curated guide to local food and drink hotspots.
Flexible booking: Keep plans open with a “pay later” option and full refund available 24 hours in advance.
Personal assistance: 24-hour concierge service helps with bookings, recommendations, and special requests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

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The Setting: A Cozy, Fully Equipped Studio

The tour takes place inside a welcoming cooking studio within a cafe-restaurant setting. This dedicated culinary space allows for a relaxed atmosphere where you can focus on learning without feeling cramped. The studio’s setup is designed for comfort, with enough space for each participant to work on their own dough or dumplings, and the environment encourages conversation and engagement.

The Wine Tasting: A Journey Through Georgian Varieties

One of the highlights is tasting 34 different types of Georgian wines. Georgia is often called the birthplace of wine, and this experience showcases that heritage through bottles ranging from well-established wineries to artisanal, family-run producers.

Your guide will discuss each wine’s story and production nuances, helping you understand what makes Georgian wine unique. They also recommend the best food pairings, making the tasting both educational and delicious. The accompanying Georgian cheese platter complements the wines, balancing flavors and textures, which allows you to fully appreciate the complexities of Georgian wine culture.

The Culinary Session: Rolling Up Your Sleeves

After tasting, it’s time to get hands-on. Under the guidance of experienced chefs, you’ll learn to make khinkali (juicy meat dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread). You’ll prepare approximately 5-6 khinkali per person and share a khachapuri, choosing between styles like Adjarian or Megrelian, depending on your preference.

The cooking process involves learning traditional techniques, hearing stories about the dishes’ origins, and understanding their significance in Georgian culture. While the class is shared between two guests, you’ll get to taste your creations served warm and fresh, giving you a real sense of pride and accomplishment.

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The Final Tasting: Savoring Your Creations

Once the dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy your homemade khinkali and khachapuri, paired with the wines you sampled earlier. This communal meal provides a satisfying, authentic taste of Georgia’s culinary identity. Many reviewers note that the dishes are delicious and generously portioned, making this a fulfilling experience.

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Additional Resources and Support

Included in your booking are recipe cards so you can recreate these dishes at home, plus a curated guide to Tbilisi’s best cafes, bars, and restaurants. Should you need help with reservations or local tips, the 24-hour concierge service is there to support, making your experience smoother and more personalized.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While many aspects of this experience are appealing, the one review indicating a 2-star rating hints at some inconsistency. It’s worth noting that as a single review, this might not reflect the overall quality but does suggest that some customers may find the experience less polished than expected. Group sizes, timing, and the execution of cooking or tasting could vary, so managing expectations is wise.

On top of that, travelers should be aware that private transfers are not included but can be arranged for an extra fee, which adds to the overall convenience but also increases the cost.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adults and children 8+ who are eager to learn about Georgian cuisine and wine in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s particularly appealing to those interested in interactive learning and culture, especially if you want a good balance of education and fun. If you’re after a culinary souvenir in the form of recipes and wine knowledge, this tour offers valuable takeaways.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting a manageable, enjoyable introduction to Georgian food and wine, this experience offers a nice blend of hands-on activity and tasting. The opportunity to prepare authentic dishes like khinkali and khachapuri, combined with sampling 34 varieties of wines, makes for an engaging, flavorful outing.

However, the mixed review suggests it’s not a flawless experience. If you’re a seasoned foodie or wine aficionado, you might find the tour a bit basic or uneven. Conversely, if you’re seeking a friendly, approachable way to connect with Georgian cuisine, it’s likely to satisfy.

The inclusion of recipe cards and a local guide makes this a practical choice for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing experience. The price point reflects the combination of professional guidance, tastings, and resources, offering good value for those interested in Georgian culinary culture.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for curious travelers looking for a fun, interactive, and educational way to explore Georgia’s flavors, especially if they appreciate a relaxed environment and practical takeaways.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class making khinkali and khachapuri, taste 34 Georgian wines with a cheese platter, receive recipe cards, and a curated guide to local eateries, plus access to a 24-hour concierge service.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience takes approximately three hours, covering both the wine tasting and cooking session.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged 8 and above, making it a family-friendly activity.

Can I buy wine at the venue?
Yes, if you love the wines you sampled, you have the option to purchase bottles directly at the venue.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, private transfers are not included but can be arranged for an additional fee.

Is the booking flexible?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The experience is offered in English, but other languages like French, German, Russian, Georgian, and Armenian may also be available.

In essence, this tour offers a delightful taste of Georgia’s culinary treasures, perfect for those eager to learn and taste in a friendly, well-supported environment. Keep in mind the mixed reviews and consider your expectations, but if you’re after an authentic, practical experience, it’s a fine choice.